Global, Regional, And National Burden Of Alopecia Areata And Its Associated Comorbidities, 1990–2021, And Projections To 2050: An Analysis Of The Global Burden Of Disease Study 2021
August 2025
in “
Acta Dermato Venereologica
”
TLDR Alopecia areata is decreasing globally, affects more females, and is linked to anxiety and atopic dermatitis, especially in children.
The study analyzes the global burden of alopecia areata from 1990 to 2021 and projects trends to 2050, using data from 204 countries. It finds a decreasing trend in the age-standardized prevalence, incidence, and years lived with disability due to alopecia areata, with a higher prevalence in females. The disease burden has reduced in high sociodemographic index regions, but the condition is generally evenly distributed globally. Population growth and aging are major contributors to the disease burden. Alopecia areata in children under 14 is linked to anxiety and psychological disorders, unlike in older individuals. Additionally, atopic dermatitis is associated with alopecia areata, highlighting the need for age-specific recognition of psychological impacts.